March 28, 2013 3:05pm EDTMarch 28, 2013 2:53pm EDTRushel Shell, the projected starting running back at Pitt, is out of spring practice right now as he takes care of a personal issue. Multiple media outlets have reported that Shell is considering transferring, possibly to Arizona State.

Watch This

Thursday morning, coach Paul Chryst addressed the situation. He said Shell is working through personal issues, but did not divulge details.

“Like many college freshmen, Rushel is working through some challenges right now,” Chryst said in a press release. “As it is for all members of our team, my most important concern is his personal well-being. Rushel and his family have our full support.

“We are giving him time away fro football to work through this situation but he very much remains a part of our family on a daily basis. We want to be sensitive and respectful of Rushel, and I would ask others to do the same.”

Shell rushed for 641 yards and four touchdowns last season as the backup to Ray Graham. He is projected to start this year as Pitt makes the transition from the Big East to the ACC.